Aeub 2017:tackling polarization, building trust​17-21 july, 2017

Main objectives:​• to give hope, inspiration and show concrete examples of initiatives that build trust and address the current trend of polarization in Europe​• ​to put people in touch with like-minded initiatives​• to give opportunities for new partnerships, for creating networks and exchanging tools.

Main topics will be:​• initiatives addressing the root causes of polarization• methodologies for dialogue in divided societies• how to create a safe space for people from different backgrounds to listen to each other• the use of reflective space to consider our own responses.

AEUB2017 highlights:

• Jo Berry and Dr. Patrick Magee (confirmed speakers)Sixteen years after her father was killed by an IRA bomb, Jo Berry first met with the man who ordered the attack, Dr. Patrick Magee. Since then they have met on more than 150 occasions. Although Patrick carries the burden of knowing he had caused Jo profound hurt, they continue to explore their common humanity, recognizing that war robs combatants of what it is to be human, of an essential capacity to empathize and to see the world through the eyes of others.

• Young Ambassadors Programme (YAP)For the third consecutive year, the YAP will be an integral part of AEUB. The programme addresses young people aged 18-25 who are concerned about the future of Europe, and offers them an opportunity to grow in their personal understanding and commitment to Europe, shared ethical values and one’s personal contribution to a better future.

• Training TastersInitiatives of Change teams and partner organizations in different parts of Europe have developed workshops and training courses that have been effective in responding to polarization and building trust. The ‘Training Tasters’ offered during this forum will give participants an opportunity to experience some elements of these courses. If interested, the facilitators will let participants know how the full training can be taken, or how to invite the programme to their communities. The aim is to expand the use of these tools much more widely, to learn from each other and to promote cross-border collaboration.

When?AEUB2017 will start on Monday 17 July at 16:45 and end on Friday 21 July at 12:30.​For more information:

Come and meet people from all over Europe, of various ethnic and religious backgrounds, from different generations and discover effective ways we can tackle the issues polarizing our European society today. Share your story, get involved, build trust and find inspiration.